A New Communal Living in Sirkeci


This project envisions a safe, inclusive community for immigrants and marginalised groups to rebuild lives, form connections, and belong. Public floors feature a weekly bazaar for immigrant artisans, a community podcast studio, common workspaces, and a safe café for confidential meetings with support professionals. Concrete columns and brick-clad walls ensure resilience against earthquakes and floods. Residential floors prioritise adaptability and warmth with prefabricated timber panels for detachability. Facade murals, inspired by narratives of resilience and cultural exchange, transform the building into a vibrant canvas. This space fosters interaction, collaboration, and support, addressing urban challenges while creating a safe space.


Author: Emre Balcı
Studio: ARCH 401 Fall 2024
Instructor(s):
Ezgi İşbilen, Melis Sözen


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Department of Architecture Bilkent University FF-304A
06800 Ankara – TURKEY

Email: arch@bilkent.edu.tr

Phone: +90-312-290-3463
Fax: +90-312-266-4402